Antiferromagnetic FeMn alloys electrodeposited from chloride-based electrolytes

Abstract

The capability of synthesizing Fe-based antiferromagnetic metal alloys would fuel the use of electrodeposition in the design of new magnetic devices such as high-aspect-ratio spin valves or new nanostructured hard magnetic composites. Here we report the synthesis of high quality antiferromagnetic FeMn alloys electrodeposited from chloride-based electrolytes. We have found that in order to grow homogeneous FeMn films it is necessary to incorporate a large concentration of NH₄Cl as an additive in the electrolyte. The study of the structure and magnetic properties shows that films with composition close to Fe₅₀Mn₅₀ are homogeneous antiferromagnetic alloys. We have established a parameter window for the synthesis of FeMn alloys that show antiferromagnetism at room temperature.